According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is defined as “an anxiety disorder that some people get after seeing or living through a dangerous event”. As human beings it is normal for us to be anxious, frightened or disconnected when we experience something traumatic, these feelings usually fade away with time allowing for us to move on and enjoy life again, however, individuals with PTSD are so overwhelmed by the trauma that they fail to overcome these feelings and find themselves stuck with a continuing sense of danger and saddness that does not fade.The full explanation can be found at http://cutie79.wordpress.com/2011/09/23/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/

Symptoms of PTSD are divided into 3 catergories:

1. Re-experiencing
-Recurring thoughts about the traumatic event.
-Nightmares.
-Flashbacks of the event.
-Exhibiting physical responses such as sweating or an elevated heart rate when reminded of the event.
-Having intense feelings of distress when reminded of the event.

2. Avoidance
-Lack of interest in activities that were once important to you.
-Making an effort to avoid any places or events that bring reminders of the trauma.
-Feeling distant from others.
-Constantly being negative with no positive thoughts.
-Having feelings of your life being cut short.

3. Hyperarousal
-Insomnia
-Lack of concentration
-Constantly being on guard
-Constant irritability and anger.
-Startled easily

When diagnosing PTSD, doctors look for at least one re-xperiencing symptom, three avoidance symptoms and two hyperarousal symptoms with all having been experienced for at least one month.